Cooking the perfect steak can be a challenging task, especially if you're not a seasoned chef. That's where the best steak cooker comes in. This product category includes a range of appliances designed to help you cook steak to perfection, from sous vide machines to indoor grills and outdoor smokers.
When it comes to choosing the right steak cooker, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you'll want to consider the type of cooking method you prefer. Do you like the convenience of indoor cooking or the smoky flavor of outdoor grilling? Are you looking for a hands-off approach like sous vide or a more hands-on experience like a cast iron skillet?
Another important factor to consider is the type of steak you'll be cooking. Different cuts of meat require different cooking methods, so it's important to choose a steak cooker that can handle the specific cut you're working with. Additionally, you'll want to consider the size of the cooker and how many steaks it can accommodate at once.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the best steak cookers on the market and what sets them apart. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, we'll help you find the perfect product to take your steak game to the next level.
Best Steak Cookers
If you're a steak lover, having the perfect steak cooker is essential in achieving that perfect, juicy, and tender steak. There are a variety of steak cookers available in the market, from indoor grills to outdoor smokers. In this article, we've rounded up the best steak cookers that will help you cook the perfect steak every time. Whether you prefer your steak rare, medium, or well-done, we've got you covered. So, without further ado, let's dive into the list of the best steak cookers.
Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil & Dehydrate, Smart Thermometer, Black/Silver 6-in-1 with Thermometer
If you are looking for a versatile indoor grill that can cook your food to perfection, the Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil & Dehydrate, Smart Thermometer, Black/Silver 6-in-1 with Thermometer is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The Smart Cook System and Thermometer enable you to achieve the perfect doneness with no more guesswork and no more over or undercooking.
- The cyclonic grilling technology uses 500°F cyclonic air to perfectly cook or char grill your food to your desired doneness on the grill grate for delicious, char-grilled marks and flavors.
- The air fry function allows you to air fry crisp with up to 75% less fat than deep frying (tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French fries), using the included 4 qt crisper basket.
Cons
- The price is a bit steep compared to other indoor grills on the market.
- The size is quite large and may take up a lot of counter space.
- The smoke control system may not be effective for heavy smoke-producing foods.
The Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill is a versatile appliance that can grill, air crisp, roast, bake, broil, and dehydrate your food. The wide temperature range allows you to cook a variety of foods, from steaks to hot dogs to mains and sides, all at the same time. The grill grate fits up to 6 steaks or 24 hot dogs, making it perfect for family gatherings or parties.
The Smart Cook System and Thermometer enable you to achieve the perfect doneness from rare to well with 4 smart protein settings and 9 customizable doneness levels. The dual-sensor Foodi Smart Thermometer continuously monitors the temperature in two places for even more accurate results.
The cyclonic grilling technology uses 500°F cyclonic air to perfectly cook or char grill your food to your desired doneness on the grill grate for delicious, char-grilled marks and flavors. The air fry function allows you to air fry crisp with up to 75% less fat than deep frying (tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French fries), using the included 4 qt crisper basket.
The Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill also features a smoke control system that reduces smoke, keeping it out of the kitchen. Transform foods from frozen to perfectly char-grilled in under 25 minutes with the forget-about-defrosting feature.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a versatile indoor grill that can cook your food to perfection, the Ninja FG551 Foodi Smart XL 6-in-1 Indoor Grill with Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil & Dehydrate, Smart Thermometer, Black/Silver 6-in-1 with Thermometer is definitely worth considering.
BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill
If you're looking for a portable steak cooker that can deliver juicy steak in just 5 minutes, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill is a great option.
Pros
- The infrared burner produces intense heat of around 1500℉, which seals in the flavor of the steak efficiently and saves more energy.
- The adjustable grill grate offers 10 levels of grill rack position, making it easy to control the cooking heat for meat, seafood, and veggies.
- The portable design allows you to take the steak grill to picnics or camping trips with your family and friends.
Cons
- The grill handle can get extremely hot, so you need to be careful when taking out the grate or picking up the steaks.
- The propane gas tank is not included, so you need to purchase it separately.
- The built-in notches on the cooking grates may not fit all types of food.
This steak cooker is constructed of premium stainless steel, making it sturdy and rustproof for outdoor BBQ. It's easy to assemble, disassemble, clean, and dishwasher-friendly. With a dimension of L 16 in x W 25 in x H 15.4 in and a weight of 32 lbs, it's easy to carry around.
The stainless steel front panel is set to prevent the steak grill from overheating and protect the table in front of the gas grill from damage. The propane gas grill is safe and convenient to use, making it a great addition to your outdoor cooking equipment.
Overall, if you're looking for a portable and efficient steak cooker that can deliver juicy and flavorful steak in just 5 minutes, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill is a great option to consider.
BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill
If you're looking for a portable steak cooker, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill might be the one for you.
Pros
- Enjoy juicy steak in just 5 minutes with the intense heat of the infrared burner and 12,000 BTU power.
- Constructed of premium stainless steel, this propane gas grill is sturdy, rustproof, and easy to assemble, disassemble, clean, and dishwasher-friendly.
- Portable design allows you to take it to picnics or camping trips with your friends and family.
Cons
- The stainless steel front panel may not be enough to prevent the steak grill from overheating.
- The igniter may stop working, but you can use a long lighter instead.
- The extreme heat of the grill may be too much for some people.
This propane gas grill comes with a stainless steel cooking grate and built-in notches that offer 10 levels of grill rack position, making it easy to control the cooking heat for meat, seafood, and veggies. The grill handle is also made of stainless steel, allowing you to take out the extreme hot grate and pick up the steaks without hurting yourself.
Overall, the BIG HORN OUTDOORS Portable Infrared Broiler Propane Gas Grill is a great option for those who want to enjoy juicy steak in just 5 minutes. However, the extreme heat of the grill and the possibility of the igniter not working may be a concern for some.
BUFFALO 37 Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
If you're looking for a large, commercial-grade pressure canner, the BUFFALO 37 Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker is a solid option.
Pros
- Designed and manufactured in Taiwan, this pressure canner is built to last.
- The stainless steel handles provide a stable support for heavy-duty food items and the power burner.
- Compatible with Gas, Electric, Ceramic and Halogen cooktops and stoves.
Cons
- Cannot be used on induction cooktops and stoves.
- Optional pressure gauge must be purchased separately.
- Heavy and cumbersome, this pressure canner may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.
This pressure canner features a German gear with mortise and tenon joint design, a simple switch, and a safe, durable, and easy-to-clean pressure indication valve. Additionally, the BUFFALO Pressure Cooker has obtained ISO 9001 : 2000 and Safety Goods (SG) Certificate from Japan.
Two steam racks are included with the pressure canner, but the optional pressure gauge must be purchased separately. The BUFFALO 37 Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker is also dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean.
Overall, if you need a large, commercial-grade pressure canner, the BUFFALO 37 Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker is a solid choice. However, if you have a smaller kitchen or need a pressure canner that can be used on induction cooktops and stoves, you may want to consider other options.
JY COOKMENT Meat Tenderizer
If you're looking for a meat tenderizer that will make your meat soft and juicy, then JY COOKMENT Meat Tenderizer is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Create tiny channels within the meat to break down connective tissues and make the meat tender
- Ergonomic design with a comfortable, non-slip handle for easy use and control
- Reduce marinating and cooking time by up to 40%
Cons
- Blades may become dull over time and need replacement
- Not suitable for use on very thin cuts of meat
- May not be dishwasher safe
JY COOKMENT Meat Tenderizer is a great kitchen tool if you want to create mouth-watering, tender meat. The tiny channels it creates within the meat allow marinades to be fully absorbed in just 5 minutes, and heat to penetrate more quickly, reducing cooking time by up to 40%. Its ergonomic design with a comfortable, non-slip handle makes it easy to use and control.
However, the blades may become dull over time and need replacement, and it may not be suitable for use on very thin cuts of meat. Additionally, it may not be dishwasher safe, so cleaning it may take some extra effort.
Overall, if you're looking for a meat tenderizer that will make your meat tender and juicy, JY COOKMENT Meat Tenderizer is a great option to consider.
Mecity Sous Vide Precision Cooker Machine
If you're looking for a precision cooker to prepare healthy and delicious food, the Mecity Sous Vide Precision Cooker Machine might be worth considering.
Pros
- Enjoy tender and juicy food with smart and accurate temperature control.
- Cook a wide range of food with a temperature range of 68 to 203℉ and a timer that can be set up to 100 hours.
- Cook food easily and eat healthier with no worry about burning or char.
Cons
- The device can be quite loud during operation.
- Programming the device can be tricky and may take some time to figure out.
- Some users may find the plastic construction less durable than they would like.
This precision cooker is ideal for those who want to cook food in a healthier way. The device allows for precise temperature control, which means that food can be stewed at an ideal temperature to get its best taste, tenderness, and juiciness. Additionally, the temperature range is wide enough to cook a variety of foods, including chicken, fish, vegetables, eggs, beef, lamb, pork, and more.
The Mecity Sous Vide Precision Cooker Machine is also easy to use. Simply season the steak or meat according to your taste, mix ingredients, put them in sealed vacuum bags, put them in a water container, install the Sous Vide Cooker, and set the time and temperature. The device is also quiet and won't cause any disturbance to your resting.
However, some users may find the device to be a bit loud during operation. Additionally, programming the device can be tricky and may take some time to figure out. Finally, some users may find the plastic construction less durable than they would like.
Overall, the Mecity Sous Vide Precision Cooker Machine is a good choice for those who want to cook food in a healthier way. With its smart and accurate temperature control, wide temperature range, and ease of use, it's a great tool to have in your kitchen.
Hamilton Beach Multi-Function Slow Cooker
If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use slow cooker, the Hamilton Beach Multi-Function Slow Cooker is a great option.
Pros
- With nine cooking options, including slow cooking, searing, browning, sautéing, roasting, steaming, cooking rice and grains, and keeping food warm, this multi-function cooker can handle a wide variety of foods.
- The sear/brown and sauté settings are especially useful for improving food's color and flavor before slow cooking and roasting.
- The large 6-quart capacity is perfect for serving 7+ people, and the removable rectangular pot provides ample room for large cuts of meat.
Cons
- The product is not dishwasher safe, so cleaning can be a bit of a hassle.
- The voltage is 220 volts, which may not be compatible with all outlets.
- Some users have reported issues with the nonstick coating wearing off over time.
This slow cooker is perfect for busy families who want to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen. It's easy to use, versatile, and can handle a wide variety of foods, making it a great investment for any home cook.
AMEGAT Slow Cooker
If you're looking for a versatile and efficient slow cooker, the AMEGAT Slow Cooker is worth considering.
Pros
- With 10 preset programs, including low and high slow cook, sear/sauté, roast, bake, steam, stew, rice, multigrain, yogurt, and more, this 10 in 1 multi cooker offers a wide range of cooking possibilities.
- The 6 quart stainless steel inner pot is removable and more lightweight and durable than ceramic/stoneware. Its excellent heat conductivity ensures that the food is evenly cooked.
- The advanced “Delay Start” function and adjustable temperature/time settings give you more control over the cooking process, ensuring precise cooking and better results.
Cons
- The slow cooker may not be suitable for those who prefer a larger capacity.
- Some customers have reported issues with the lid peeling after a few uses.
- The slow cooker may not be as user-friendly as some other models on the market.
If you're looking for a slow cooker that offers a wide range of cooking possibilities and precise control over the cooking process, the AMEGAT Slow Cooker is a good option. With its 10 preset programs and adjustable temperature/time settings, you can easily cook a variety of meals to your liking. The 6 quart stainless steel inner pot is lightweight and durable, ensuring even cooking. However, some customers have reported issues with the lid peeling after a few uses, and the slow cooker may not be as user-friendly as some other models on the market.
Elite Gourmet EMG-980B Smokeless Electric Tabletop Grill Nonstick, 6-Serving, Dishwasher Safe Removable Grilling Plate, Grill Indoor, Tempered Glass Lid, Adjustable Temperature, 14" Black
If you're looking for a reliable indoor electric grill that is easy to use and clean, the Elite Gourmet EMG-980B is a great option.
Pros
- Enjoy grilled food all year round, regardless of the weather
- Large nonstick grilling surface allows you to cook all your favorite foods at once
- Circular heating element allows for faster and more even cooking
Cons
- Some users may find the grill to be too large for their needs
- Temperature control knob may be difficult to read
- Glass lid may become foggy during use
The Elite Gourmet EMG-980B is perfect for those who love grilled food but don't want to deal with the hassle of an outdoor grill. With a large nonstick grilling surface, you can cook all your favorite foods at once, saving you time and effort. Plus, the circular heating element allows for faster and more even cooking, ensuring that your food comes out perfectly every time.
While some users may find the grill to be too large for their needs, it's perfect for those who love to entertain or have large families. The temperature control knob may be difficult to read, but once you get the hang of it, it's easy to use. Finally, the glass lid may become foggy during use, but this is a minor inconvenience that doesn't affect the grill's performance.
Cleanup is also a breeze with the Elite Gourmet EMG-980B, thanks to its detachable and dishwasher safe parts. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and easy-to-use indoor electric grill, the Elite Gourmet EMG-980B is definitely worth considering.
Hamilton Beach Steak Lover's Electric Indoor Searing Grill
If you're looking for an indoor grill that can cook steaks and other meats quickly and easily, the Hamilton Beach Steak Lover's Electric Indoor Searing Grill is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Enjoy outdoor flavor indoors
- Large nonstick surface fits 4 tuna steaks or burgers
- Quick, delicious meals in less than 10 minutes
Cons
- Non-removable grilling plates
- Limited temperature control
- No lid for trapping heat and smoke
This indoor grill has a 100 sq. in. nonstick surface that can accommodate up to 4 tuna steaks or burgers at once. Its illuminated sear button lets you sear meats and vegetables at 500° F (260° C) for perfect results every time. The grill sears meats like beef, fish, and chicken for moist, tender results and maximum flavor.
The Hamilton Beach indoor grill is easy to clean, with nonstick grilling plates that keep food from sticking and a drip tray that goes right in the dishwasher. You can enjoy outdoor flavor indoors with this indoor grill, without the need for a bulky, time-consuming outdoor grill that needs propane, charcoal, or lighter fluid to heat up.
While this indoor grill has a lot of great features, there are a few downsides to consider. The grilling plates are non-removable, which can make cleaning a bit more difficult. There's also limited temperature control, which may not be ideal for those who like to cook at specific temperatures. Finally, there's no lid for trapping heat and smoke, which may be a dealbreaker for some.
Overall, the Hamilton Beach Steak Lover's Electric Indoor Searing Grill is a great option for those who want to enjoy delicious, grilled meats indoors. It's easy to use, easy to clean, and delivers great results every time.
Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker 3.0 (WiFi)
If you're looking for a sous vide machine that delivers consistent, edge-to-edge perfect results with virtually no risk of overcooking your food, the Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker 3.0 is a great option.
Pros
- Precision cooking with highly precise temperature control
- Dual band WiFi for improved connectivity
- Mobile app allows for remote cooking and monitoring
Cons
- American plug, may require an adapter
- High price point compared to other sous vide machines
- Some users have reported connectivity issues with the WiFi feature
This sous vide machine is perfect for those who want to achieve restaurant-quality results at home. With the precise temperature control, you can cook your food to the exact doneness you desire. The WiFi feature allows you to control and monitor your cooking from anywhere, making it a convenient option for busy home cooks.
The Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker 3.0 is easy to use and comes with an adjustable clamp that fits on nearly any pot. The removable stainless steel skirt makes cleaning a breeze, either by hand or in the dishwasher.
Overall, if you're willing to invest in a high-quality sous vide machine, the Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker 3.0 is a great option that delivers consistent, perfect results every time.
Dash Chef Series Stainless Steel Sous Vide
If you're looking to create restaurant-quality meals at home, the Dash Chef Series Digital Sous Vide is a great option. With precise temperature control and a magnetic-driven water circulation system, this cooker allows your ingredients to cook through while maintaining moisture and flavor. Here are the pros and cons:
Pros
- Retains natural juices and flavor of your meat, fish, vegetables, soups, desserts, and more
- Cooks ingredients evenly, eliminating dryness or overcooked food, and seals in flavor
- Large 8.5-quart capacity is perfect for picky eaters, larger families, or entertaining
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the timer display
- The cooker is quite large and may take up a significant amount of counter space
- The price point may be too high for some users
The Dash Chef Series Digital Sous Vide is a great option for those looking to elevate their cooking game. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out, this cooker will help you achieve consistent, tasty results. The magnetic-driven water circulation system ensures that your ingredients are cooked evenly, eliminating the possibility of overcooked food. Plus, the large 8.5-quart capacity makes it easy to cook a variety of items at once.
One potential drawback of the Dash Chef Series Digital Sous Vide is its size. It may take up a significant amount of counter space, so make sure you have enough room before making your purchase. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the timer display, so be aware of this potential issue.
Overall, the Dash Chef Series Digital Sous Vide is a solid choice for those looking to create gourmet meals at home. While it may be a bit pricey for some users, its precise temperature control and large capacity make it a worthwhile investment.
Kalorik Pro 1500°F Electric Steakhouse Grill
If you want a steak cooker that can also make crunchy caramelized desserts, the Kalorik Pro 1500°F Electric Steakhouse Grill might be for you.
Pros
- Achieve a perfect sear with a tender, juicy interior thanks to the ceramic superheating elements that reach a sizzling 1500°F.
- Grill restaurant-quality steaks, burgers, fish, and more in just minutes.
- Cooks without gas, fits right on your countertop.
Cons
- The heating element is small, which can make cooking larger items challenging.
- Some customers have reported issues with the unit not working or malfunctioning.
- Burgers may not turn out as well as they do in an air fryer.
If you're looking for a steak cooker that can do more than just cook steak, the Kalorik Pro 1500°F Electric Steakhouse Grill might be worth considering. With its ceramic superheating elements, this grill can achieve a perfect sear on your favorite meats and more. Plus, it's compact and can fit right on your countertop.
However, some customers have reported issues with the unit not working or malfunctioning. Additionally, the heating element is small, which can make cooking larger items challenging. Burgers may not turn out as well as they do in an air fryer, so keep that in mind if you're looking to cook a variety of foods. Overall, if you're looking for a versatile steak cooker that can also make desserts, the Kalorik Pro 1500°F Electric Steakhouse Grill might be worth checking out.
Buying Guide
When looking to buy the best steak cooker, there are several features you should consider to ensure you get the right product for your needs. Below are some of the key factors to keep in mind:
Type of Cooker
One of the first things to consider is the type of cooker you want. There are various options available, including gas, electric, charcoal, and pellet grills. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose one that suits your preferences and cooking style.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is another important factor to consider when choosing a steak cooker. Look for a product that allows you to adjust the temperature easily and accurately, so you can cook your steaks to perfection every time.
Size and Capacity
The size and capacity of the cooker is another important consideration. Make sure you choose a product that is large enough to accommodate the number of steaks you want to cook, and that fits comfortably in your outdoor space.
Durability and Quality
When investing in a steak cooker, you want to make sure you're getting a product that is built to last. Look for a model that is made from high-quality materials, and that is designed to withstand the elements and frequent use.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. For example, some steak cookers come with built-in thermometers, rotisserie attachments, or side burners. Think about what features would be useful to you and your cooking needs, and choose a product accordingly.
By considering these factors, you can find the best steak cooker for your needs and start enjoying perfectly cooked steaks every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment do professional chefs prefer for cooking steak?
Professional chefs prefer to use heavy-duty cast iron pans or griddles for cooking steak. These types of pans heat evenly and retain heat well, allowing for a consistent cooking temperature and a nice sear on the steak. They also have a large surface area, which is ideal for cooking multiple steaks at once.
Which indoor grill is considered the best for cooking steak?
There are many indoor grills on the market that are suitable for cooking steak, but the George Foreman Grill is a popular choice among consumers. This grill has a non-stick surface that makes it easy to clean, and the sloped design allows for excess fat to drain away from the meat. Additionally, the grill plates are removable and dishwasher safe.
What are the top-rated steak cookers used in steakhouses?
Steakhouses typically use commercial-grade broilers or charbroilers to cook steak. These types of cookers use high heat to quickly sear the steak, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. Some popular brands of commercial steak cookers include Montague, Vulcan, and Garland.
What features should I look for in a steak cooker for home use?
When choosing a steak cooker for home use, it's important to consider the size, cooking temperature, and ease of use. Look for a cooker with a large surface area that can accommodate multiple steaks at once. Additionally, choose a cooker with adjustable temperature controls so you can cook your steak to your desired level of doneness. Finally, opt for a cooker with easy-to-clean surfaces and removable parts for hassle-free cleaning.
How do automatic steak cookers compare to manual grilling methods?
Automatic steak cookers, such as sous vide machines and indoor grills, offer a more controlled cooking environment than manual grilling methods. They allow you to set a precise temperature and cooking time, resulting in a perfectly cooked steak every time. However, some people prefer the traditional taste and texture of a steak cooked on a charcoal or gas grill.
Are there any advanced steak cookers that utilize woodfire technology?
Yes, there are advanced steak cookers on the market that use woodfire technology to impart a smoky flavor to the steak. These cookers typically use hardwood pellets or chips to generate smoke, and some models even allow you to control the amount of smoke produced. However, these cookers can be expensive and require more maintenance than traditional grills or indoor cookers.
